Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow reportedly suffered a Grade III turf toe injury — the most severe form of this well-known athletic injury. While “turf toe” sounds minor, this type of injury can derail entire seasons if not managed properly.
Dr. Repko's Take:
Turf toe is a sprain of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, usually caused by the big toe being forcibly bent upward (hyper-dorsiflexion) while planted. A Grade III injury involves a complete tear of the plantar plate and surrounding stabilizing ligaments beneath the big toe. This structure is critical for push-off and explosive movements — and without it, even walking can be painful, let alone playing quarterback at an elite level.
Evidence-Based Treatment & Prognosis:
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Diagnosis is confirmed with MRI to visualize soft tissue disruption.
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Initial care includes strict immobilization (boot or cast) for 6–8 weeks to allow scar tissue to form and stabilize the joint.
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Surgery is reserved for cases with joint instability, sesamoid bone displacement, or cartilage injury, which occur in a minority of athletes.
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Rehabilitation progresses through phases: swelling control, progressive range of motion, strengthening, and eventually sport-specific drills.
Return-to-play timelines vary:
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Non-operative care: ~2–3 months
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Post-surgical recovery: ~3–5 months
Bottom line: With precise treatment and structured rehab, most athletes recover well — but rushing back risks chronic pain, stiffness, or long-term deformity.
